Young full-back Matt Richards has committed his future to the Blues by signing a new contract tying him to Town until 2006. The 18-year-old was one of the big success stories at Portman Road last season and did enough to impress Southampton manager Gordon Strachan.

Richards told the club site that despite the speculation he never really considered moving away from Town: "It's nice to know that other people having been looking at me and the interest is there but there has never been a thought in my mind about leaving Ipswich.

"I am delighted to sign a new contract and believe that we have the players here to get back into the Premiership very soon."

Strachan enquired about a £3 million move for Richards and striker Darren Bent who is also expected to sign a new deal at Town. Both players are represented by agent Jonathan Barnett who feels they are best served by remaining at Portman Road at present.

Richards made his senior debut in the away leg of the UEFA Cup tie with Avenir Beggen and made 17 appearances in total last season.

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